GRAPHIC

Cover Under Insurance Formula (2454x915)

Table of Contents

1. What is Fixed-Charge Coverage Ratio?
2. How to Calculate Fixed-Charge Coverage Ratio?
3. What does Fixed-Charge Coverage Ratio Tell Us?
4. Why is Fixed-Charge Coverage Ratio Important?
5. What is a Good Fixed-Charge Coverage Ratio?

What is Fixed-Charge Coverage Ratio?

Fixed-Charge Coverage Ratio is a financial metric that measures a company's ability to pay fixed charges such as interest expenses and lease payments. Fixed-Charge Coverage Ratio is also known as Debt Service Coverage Ratio.

How to Calculate Fixed-Charge Coverage Ratio?

The formula to calculate Fixed-Charge Coverage Ratio is:

Fixed-Charge Coverage Ratio = (EBIT + Fixed Charges) ÷ (Fixed Charges + Interest Expenses)

Where:

• EBIT = Earnings Before Interest and Taxes
• Fixed Charges = Lease Payments + Principal Payments

Let's take an example to understand this better. Suppose a company has an EBIT of $200,000, lease payments of $50,000, and interest expenses of $20,000. The Fixed-Charge Coverage Ratio of this company would be:

Fixed-Charge Coverage Ratio = ($200,000 + $50,000) ÷ ($50,000 + $20,000) = 3.57

This means that the company can cover its fixed charges 3.57 times with its earnings before interest and taxes.

What does Fixed-Charge Coverage Ratio Tell Us?

Fixed-Charge Coverage Ratio tells us about a company's ability to pay its fixed charges. A high Fixed-Charge Coverage Ratio indicates that a company has enough earnings to cover its fixed charges multiple times, which is a good sign for investors and lenders. On the other hand, a low Fixed-Charge Coverage Ratio indicates that a company may have difficulty paying its fixed charges, which is a red flag for investors and lenders.

Why is Fixed-Charge Coverage Ratio Important?

Fixed-Charge Coverage Ratio is important for investors and lenders as it helps them in assessing the creditworthiness of a company. A high Fixed-Charge Coverage Ratio indicates that a company is financially stable and can pay its fixed charges without any difficulty. This makes it easier for a company to obtain loans and other forms of financing. On the other hand, a low Fixed-Charge Coverage Ratio indicates that a company may have difficulty paying its fixed charges, which makes it less attractive for lenders and investors.

What is a Good Fixed-Charge Coverage Ratio?

A good Fixed-Charge Coverage Ratio depends on the industry in which the company operates. In general, a Fixed-Charge Coverage Ratio of 1.5 or higher is considered good. However, some industries such as utilities and telecommunications have higher fixed charges, and therefore, a Fixed-Charge Coverage Ratio of 2 or higher may be considered good in these industries.

Conclusion

Fixed-Charge Coverage Ratio is an important financial metric that measures a company's ability to pay its fixed charges. It is calculated by dividing EBIT and fixed charges by fixed charges and interest expenses. A high Fixed-Charge Coverage Ratio indicates that a company is financially stable and can pay its fixed charges without any difficulty. On the other hand, a low Fixed-Charge Coverage Ratio indicates that a company may have difficulty paying its fixed charges, which makes it less attractive for investors and lenders. A good Fixed-Charge Coverage Ratio depends on the industry in which the company operates. In general, a Fixed-Charge Coverage Ratio of 1.5 or higher is considered good.